At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise offenders in cooking nutritious meals and help them gain valuable skills.
- Company: Join the Ministry of Justice, making a difference in rehabilitation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full civil service benefits, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and potential for career advancement.
- Why this job: Impact lives while working in a professional kitchen environment.
- Qualifications: Level 2 food production and hygiene certificates required.
The predicted salary is between 25147 - 27596 £ per year.
Permanent role – Full‑time, part‑time or job share options available. Located in Rugby, East Midlands.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee offenders in preparing and cooking nutritionally balanced meals for the entire prison.
- Support offenders in developing new skills and working toward qualifications that improve post‑release employment prospects.
- Maintain a professional industrial kitchen environment and ensure high standards of hygiene and safety.
Hours and Salary
- 37‑hour week with shift patterns that fall outside 7:00‑19:00 Monday‑Friday, including weekends and public holidays. A 20% unsocial hours allowance is added to base pay when applicable.
- Band 3 salary: minimum £34,928, maximum £36,778 (inclusive of the 20% allowance).
Qualifications and Experience
- Level 2 certificate in food production within hospitality and catering or equivalent.
- Level 2 food hygiene certificate.
- Familiarity with current health, safety and hygiene regulations for kitchen work.
- Competency in an industrial kitchen environment.
- Fluency in spoken English.
- Refreshment training in HACCP completed every three years.
Working Arrangements
The MoJ offers hybrid working arrangements where business need allows. Roles may require a mix of base location, other MoJ sites and occasional home working. Hybrid arrangements are subject to business review and may not be suitable for all positions.
Benefits
- Full civil service benefits package, including pension schemes.
- Bank, public and privilege holidays (9 days or 66 hours 36 minutes).
- Access to training and development programmes such as equality and diversity, challenging behaviour, suicide prevention and anti‑bullying.
- Potential for promotion programmes and career development.
Recruitment and EEO Statement
This vacancy is open to UK nationals, Republic of Ireland nationals, Commonwealth citizens with the right to work in the UK, EU/Switzerland/Norway/Iceland/ Liechtenstein nationals and their settled or pre‑settled family members, plus several other nationalities as listed. The MoJ is a Disability Confident employer and welcomes applications from candidates with disabilities. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition in accordance with Civil Service Commission principles.
Security Checks
Standard DBS check required.
Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Onley in Rugby employer: Ministry of Justice
As a leading employer in the public sector, the Ministry of Justice offers a supportive work environment at HMP Onley in Rugby, East Midlands, where you can make a meaningful impact by helping offenders develop essential culinary skills. With flexible working options, a comprehensive benefits package, and numerous training and career development opportunities, you will find a rewarding career that not only values your contributions but also prioritises your professional growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Onley in Rugby
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Ministry of Justice. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Ministry of Justice
Don't be shy about reaching out to Ministry of Justice directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Catering: Caterer - HMP Onley in Rugby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Ministry of Justice and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
